Antarctica Cruises

Nothing can prepare you for the feeling of stepping on the ice for the first time. Hearing the crunch underfoot and feeling the timelessness of this remarkable white continent. Your trip to Antarctica begins here.

Gaze into the iridescent blue heart of an iceberg. Feel the thrill of a leopard seal turning to meet your gaze. Sit quietly on a beach and be entranced by a chorus of penguin calls as they waddle from nest to shore. Your Antarctica cruise is no longer a dream, but a vibrant experience you’ll treasure forever.Embark on a small ship expedition cruise with a friendly group of like-minded travellers. We believe that expedition cruising is about true adventure and camaraderie, and with an average of 126 passengers across our voyages, ours are some of the smallest Antarctic expedition cruises you’ll find.

Your Antarctic adventure begins in the delightful port town of Ushuaia or Punta Arenas*. Transit through the vibrant South American hubs of Santiago or Buenos Aires and enjoy the delicious local cuisine and culture before joining your expedition team and embarking on your Antarctic cruise of a lifetime.

*Departure port varies depending on whether you choose to sail, fly/sail or fly/fly to the Antarctic Peninsula. Take a look at our itineraries below to find out more and explore the real world.

What is expedition cruising?

Embark on a sea-based adventure to the remote coastal regions of our globe, where unique encounters will allow you to experience nature at its most pristine.

This type of travel was born three decades ago, nurtured by rugged adventurers keen to share the magic of the wilderness with like-minded travellers. Expedition cruising brings together those with a curiosity about the world around them, a keen sense of adventure, and a desire to immerse themselves in the natural environment.

What will I do on an Aurora Expeditions cruise?

On our expedition cruises you will sail in a small, purpose-built ship with an expert, international expedition team, through some of the most amazing seascapes on earth. In small Zodiac boats, you will search for wildlife. We land on remote beaches, where you might visit a penguin colony, walk up a ridge for panoramic views or hike to see remnants of bygone eras. Our expedition team is by your side the whole time, enriching your experience with fascinating presentations and insights into remarkable places.

What do you mean by ‘expedition’?

An expedition cruise is never predictable. Every voyage is different, guided by the ever-changing weather, tides, ice conditions and our team’s deep local knowledge. We choose the best plan for each day, pushing for the ultimate experience for everyone on board. Being flexible yields incredible rewards. When we can share a spontaneous wildlife display, watch a breathtaking glacier calving or allow you a moment of true solitude, we know it’s worth it.

On an expedition cruise, we encourage you to make the most of every opportunity to nurture your inner adventurer. You can choose from a range of add-on activities to make the most of your time in these beautiful places. We have pioneered many adventure options to help you explore in your own way.

Historic sites

Bird watching

Join your onboard naturalists and fellow birdwatching enthusiasts to watch for seabirds following the ship as they make their long journey across the ocean.

Included Activities (select itineraries)

Polar camping*

Roll out your sleeping bag and mat and fall asleep in the Antarctic twilight to the sound of water lapping on the shore and the distant rumble of glaciers.

Polar plunge*

A time worn tradition, the polar plunge is a rite of passage into an exclusive club. It’s no secret why: the ocean doesn’t freeze until -1.8° C (28.7° F) and sunshine is not guaranteed!

Onboard/At Sea

Our ships are designed to put people in connection with the environment. With expansive observation decks to bring you closer to the world outside, inviting communal areas, a comfortable lecture room and complimentary access to the gym, sauna and spa, the exploration and discovery continue whether you’re ashore or on board.

Ship cruising

Find a spot on deck or in the observation lounge as the captain skillfully navigates sea ice, sails the spectacular, narrow Lemaire Channel or crosses the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal.

Enthralling, informative lectures

Join our expedition specialists and learn about the captivating wildlife and natural wonders as you see them. Be swept away in tales of terror and triumph as our historians share some of the fascinating stories of human endeavor in these remote corners of the world.

Wildlife watching

It’s not uncommon to spot dolphins frolicking off the bow, humpback or fin whales surfacing at sea, or majestic albatrosses and petrels soaring overhead. Get out where the action is and make sure you don’t miss a thing! Binoculars and wildlife guides are available for your use on board.

Gym, Spa & Sauna

In between landings you are welcome to visit the wellness centre, where you can use the gym, visit our sauna (which we highly recommend after the polar plunge!) or book a massage (additional cost applies). There are also 2 jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.

Onboard Dining

You will be fuelled-up for your expedition with delicious morning and afternoon teas, and hearty meals cooked by our onboard chefs. Meal-times are a great opportunity to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open-seating dining area. We also invite you to join your captain and expedition team for informal Captain’s Welcome and Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetisers, followed by a 3 course meal.

Optional (select itineraries)

Optional activities are popular and group sizes are limited, so if you’re interested, get in touch with our team as soon as possible. Additional fees apply. See your itinerary page of the website for details. Whether it’s adventure at sea or on land that makes you tick, we have a huge range of optional activities to help you make the most of your time in some of the most beautiful places on earth. We’ll get you out for your optional activities as often as possible, and this will be your main mode of exploration throughout your trip. Your guides will assess the conditions at each landing, and you’ll have the option to join whenever conditions allow.

Ocean

Sea kayaking

Silent and sleek, sea kayaks are perfect for exploring wild coastlines. Accompanied by your expert guides, you will have multiple sea kayak excursions throughout the voyage (weather permitting).

Scuba diving

Get under the skin of the sea and discover the hidden wonders beneath on a guided diving option. NB: Polar diving participants must have extensive experience diving in drysuits in cold environments.

Snorkelling

Relax and catch a glimpse of the captivating underwater world just below the surface as you drift along at a leisurely pace.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)

Put your balance to the test on the newest addition to our activity program. Paddleboard your way to a truly memorable adventure experience.

Alpine

Snowshoeing

Stretch your legs as you walk across the snow, hiking up slopes to viewpoints over some of the most remarkable, wild landscapes on earth.

Ski and snowboard touring

Experience the ultimate in ski and snowboard touring on the only truly white continent on earth.

Climbing and alpine trekking

A thrilling alpine experience in Antarctica. Climb seldom-visited peaks, trek over technical alpine passes and go ice climbing on the continent known for its icy splendour.

Shackleton’s Crossing, South Georgia

This seldom-repeated alpine crossing navigates intricate glaciers and high alpine passes in one of the most remote, uncharted regions on earth. All Aurora Expeditions activity guides hold high level qualifications from national and internationally recognised organisations. Our mountain and ski guides hold ski and climbing qualifications from member countries of the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA). Our sea kayak guides are all certified sea kayak instructors and guides.

About Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the last, great untamed continents on planet Earth. Its almost alien landscape is filled with stories – both heroic and harrowing. From the days of Captain Cook’s 1772 Antarctic voyage to Roald Amundsen and Sir Ernest Shackleton, humans have always been captivated by this vast place.

The spectacular Antarctic Peninsula is the most accessible part of the continent. Only 40 hours or so south of Cape Horn by ship lies a rugged spine of mountains flanked by huge glaciers. The western coast is etched with fjords; dozens of islands lie offshore. The result is a glorious maze of sheltered channels and inlets, where modern scientific stations and reminders of early explorers and the whaling industry are scattered among penguin rookeries and seal colonies.

Nowadays, you too can become a 21st century explorer with an Aurora Expeditions’ Antarctic adventures.

Planning your trip to Antarctica

Here are our tips to help you prepare for your upcoming Antarctica expedition.

When travelling to Antarctica it is important you are prepared for your expedition. Our team of Antarctic experts have pulled together a wealth of important information to help you prepare for your upcoming journey. From what to wear to how to get to our Antarctic departure ports, our information below aims to help you start planning your adventure and give you an idea of what you’ll need to know before you go.

If you still have more questions or queries, feel free to contact our team of Expedition Experts.

During the summer months (when we visit) the temperature can range from -2°C (28°F) to 8°C (46°F). Big storms are rare, but if one comes through the temperature could drop to -8°C (17°F).

Do you provide polar expedition jackets?

Yes. Each passenger travelling on our Antarctic voyages will receive a complimentary polar expedition jacket to wear during your expedition and take home after your trip.

What clothes should I take to Antarctica?

Shipboard clothing is informal and casual; jeans, jumpers, long sleeve shirt and enclosed shoes are ideal in our polar regions. However, be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected sightings! Some people like to take a nice outfit or something a bit special for the Captain’s welcome and farewell drinks, but formal clothing is not necessary.

How many pairs of gloves do I need?

We recommend you take two pairs of gloves.

What clothes do I need in South America?

In South America it will be mid-summer and the temperature is likely to be between 20°C and 30°C. Casual comfortable clothing such as shorts, skirts and cool tops with sandals are ideal. In Tierra del Fuego the weather is very changeable and tends to be cooler, so long trousers and a windproof or fibre-pile (polar fleece) jacket are ideal.

How fit do I need to be to go to Antarctica?

To make the most of our voyages, you should be in good general health and able to walk reasonable distances, sometimes over uneven terrain. However, if you have problems walking on rough ground, you can enjoy the scenery closer to shore. Should you have any physical limitations please notify us well in advance of your departure, but this should not discourage you from participating.

How many people on the ship?

Our ships carry a maximum of 132 passengers in Antarctica, designed in mind to ensure that passengers will still be able to enjoy multiple landings every day. We also have approx 15-18 expedition specialists onboard, and 47-56 crew members.

Where do passengers come from?

The majority of our clients come from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Europe and America, however we do often have a mix of other nationalities on board, including our expedition team and crew.

Is the ship air-conditioned/heated?

All our ships are air-conditioned and the temperature ranges for 15°C to 25°C. You can control the temperature of your cabin by adjusting the airflow through the roof vent and turning your heater on or off.

How much room is there for luggage?

There is ample storage space in your cabin on all our ships. Your empty baggage can be stored safely elsewhere on the ship if need be.

How do we dry wet clothing?

On board, you can store your wet weather gear and muck boots in your locker, found in the mudroom.

Is there Internet, email or telephone access on board?

Onboard WiFi internet packages are available for purchase during the voyage. Telephone access for personal use is not available on board. In case of an emergency, our expedition team can facilitate communication with your family members if necessary.

How often do we get off the ship?

We aim to get off the ship as much as possible to experience the destinations up close. Twice per day is common but more if weather, daylight hours and itinerary allow. Duration of the landings vary from site to site but at the height of the peak season, cruise operators must stick to timings allocated by authorities.

What kind of footwear do I need for our shore visits?

It is most important that you bring a comfortable pair of enclosed walking shoes to wear on board the ship. Muck boots are provided on board and are required to be worn on all landings. If you have concerns regarding extra small or large sizing, or hard-to-fit feet, we recommend you bring your own pair.

Should I bring my walking poles?

Yes, it’s a good idea, especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks or deep snow, and we may go for extended walks to see different parts of our landing point. We recommend the telescopic poles, with the optional snow-basket tips. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.

How close can I get to the animals?

The International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) implement strict wildlife guidelines that all visitors to Antarctica must abide by. Passengers are to keep at least 5m from wildlife at all times. Some species are more vulnerable to disturbance and require greater distance, our expedition team will brief you on board.

What if I need to go to the toilet when ashore?

Our expedition team will instruct you with these types of rules on board. Generally we ask you to relieve yourself on board before going on a landing and if the necessity arises ashore, you will be driven back to the ship.

Can I do more than one activity?

We strongly advise against selecting multiple activities as each is a dedicated activity for those with the relevant experience. To make the most of your time and money, we recommend selecting only one activity.

Can I swim or snorkel in Antarctica?

Although you cannot swim in Antarctica, most of our voyages stop for a ‘Polar Plunge’, where all willing passengers can take the ultimate dip into the icy Antarctic waters. You do have the option to take up our Polar Snorkelling activity, or experienced scuba divers have the option to dive, on selected voyages.

In general, items that are not included in the cost of your voyage are: flights to and from your voyage, pre- and post-accommodation, transfers, extra drinks from the bar, gratuities, Ship Shop items, laundry costs and other items of a personal nature (unless stated in your voyage inclusions).

We recommend that you take US dollars for use in Argentina and Chile, and on board the ship. We do not recommend travellers cheques as it can be difficult to change them, even at hotels. Australian dollars are impossible to exchange in South America, particularly in Tierra del Fuego.

What currency do you accept on board?

The onboard currency is US dollars. All your onboard purchases including bar, laundry, ship shop, internet, and massages are charged to your shipboard account and settled by credit card or cash (US dollars only) at the end of the voyage.

Can I BYO alcohol?

BYO alcohol is not permitted. We have a well-stocked selection of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages available for you to purchase in the onboard bar.

How much should I tip? Are tips included, if not how much per person per day?

A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to increase/decrease the amount or remove the tip when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance, including medical evacuation cover, is mandatory for all Aurora Expeditions’ voyages. We advise you have insurance for voyage cancellation to ensure you will be covered financially if you are forced to cancel your voyage due to circumstances beyond your control. It is in your best interest to read carefully the General Terms & Conditions on your booking form or on our website.

What is the electrical supply on board?

The electrical supply on board our ships is 220 volts, 50 hertz. Please bring a converter if your devices use 110 volts. International electrical sockets are available in your cabin and throughout the ship. If you have many devices, it is advised you bring a multi power board.

Are there hairdryers on board?

Yes, there are hairdryers in every cabin.

Do you have facilities on board to download digital images from my camera?

Many people ask us if they will get seasick. It is a very difficult question to answer because it depends so much on the individual. Our experience is that a small percentage of people are seasick on any trip and most of these people are fine after a day or so at sea. If you feel that you are particularly susceptible to seasickness then it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. We advise you come armed with motion sickness tablets, and there will be a doctor on board to assist with any bouts of seasickness.

Your polar expedition jacket

Each passenger aboard our Antarctic expeditions will receive an expedition jacket when you board the ship. Designed exclusively for Aurora Expeditions, the 3-in-1 jacket offers sophisticated expedition-styling and both the inner and outer jacket include all of the important features for travelling to the polar regions, complete with an included ‘drop seat’ allowing for additional comfort when sitting in Zodiacs.

Your expedition jacket is designed to be worn over your essential base layers and provides a versatile layering system suitable for the conditions to be encountered on our polar expeditions.

Your jacket will be ready and waiting for you in your cabin when you board your expedition.

Inner Liner

Wind-resistant for comfortable wear without the companion waterproof shell

Polar Jacket FAQ

I already have a jacket, can I get a refund or order as a gift? Our jackets are a complimentary gift and therefore you will not be entitled to any refund. If you do not wish to keep the jacket for yourself, you are welcome to order a different size (however please note sizes cannot be changed on board due to change of mind).

What if the jacket doesn’t fit – can I change it on board? We will have a very limited range of extra sizes on board if your jacket is too small.

What colour are the jackets? The outer jackets have a blue body and grey arms. The inner jacket is dark grey.

What size should I order? We suggest ordering a size that you normally wear for jackets. If you are unsure, we suggest you order one size up. Our friendly reservations team are also available to help.

Can I try one on before I order? We have samples of all sizes at our Sydney office. You are welcome to visit us to try it on for size.

Request a customised quote

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